Persisting Unlawful Online Casinos Remain Operational in the Philippines
In mid-2025, reports have surfaced of fake offshore gambling sites operating in the Philippines, despite the ban on Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) that took effect in 2024. These sites, which are not authorised by PAGCOR, are illegally using fabricated license certificates and the PAGCOR logo to deceive the public.
Despite PAGCOR's warnings against such fraudulent activities, the specific list of these 11 fake offshore gambling sites has not been made publicly available. To obtain accurate and up-to-date information, it is advisable to consult official PAGCOR advisories or alerts posted on their website or trusted government news sources.
Alejandro Tengco, chairman and CEO of PAGCOR, has expressed his concern over the use of PAGCOR's name and logo by these platforms, stating that it is a blatant disrespect to the agency and poses a threat to the public. PAGCOR is currently conducting stricter monitoring and plans to work with law enforcement to pursue legal action against any group found to be defrauding players or misusing the PAGCOR name.
It is important for players in the Philippines to stay away from any site claiming to be an offshore gaming platform operating under PAGCOR. If in doubt, it is safer to check directly with PAGCOR before using any online betting service.
The ban on POGOs was ordered by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr in mid-2024, citing serious criminal activity tied to these operations. During his July 22 State of the Nation Address, Marcos accused the POGO industry of being a cover for a wide range of illegal activity, including online scams, human trafficking, prostitution, and even murder.
PAGCOR is no longer issuing licenses for offshore gaming operations. As such, any entity claiming to operate under a PAGCOR license for offshore gaming is clearly violating the law. Some former POGO operators are still illegally active despite the deadline to shut down, posing a risk to consumers and the integrity of the gaming industry.
In conclusion, it is crucial for consumers to exercise caution when engaging with online gambling platforms. Always verify the legitimacy of a site before participating in any betting activities, and consult official sources for the latest information on PAGCOR's stance on online gambling regulation.
In light of the ongoing illegal activities by unauthorized offshore gambling sites in the Philippines, it would be prudent to consult general news sources and PAGCOR advisories for the latest updates on these fake platforms. This becomes particularly important as these sites, often disguised as legitimate POGOs, are continuing to commit crimes, such as fraud and misuse of PAGCOR's name and logo, under the guise of offering casino-and-gambling services.
